On a particularly chilly day last week, I headed to DKNY's Madison Avenue store for an early morning style off. To be honest, I saw that the invitation was from DKNY and didn't really pay much attention as to what I'd actually be doing. Much to my surprise when I arrived at the store (aside from these adorable personalized cookies), I learned that we would be styling ourselves. When I asked the lovely DKNY PR Girl as to where the plus sizes were located in the store, she reassured me that I would find pieces to fit, especially in the PureDKNY line.

Now normally, this is where I'd roll my eyes and say something like "You are absolutely out of your mind!", but trust me, after you meet the ever-elusive, multitasking, latte-carrying PR Girl, you somehow believe everything that she says. Honestly, she could tell me that I've magically become a blonde and I would believe her for a solid five minutes. But I digress.

We had free reign over the store, and with VIP Sales Specialist Ronnie's help, I found pieces that fit. In the photo, I'm wearing an IGIGI dress that might look familiar and the perfect flat OTK boots, but every other knit in the photo is from DKNY.

In the above photo, I'm wearing a black Cozy (size m/l - seriously), a black boiled wool cocoon sweater, chunky knit black fingerless gloves, a chunky knit black infinity scarf and a black handbag with chain detail (I've lusted after this bag for MONTHS). I can't seem to find these specific items online, but I'm sure if you called the store, they would be able to assist you (212 223 DKNY).

I definitely learned a few lessons during my Cozy Style Off experience. Allow me to outline them for you:

1: The Cozy really is as fantastic as everyone says. Check out the iPhone app if you don't believe me.

2: Never judge a book (or in this case, clothing) by it's cover.

3: The right associate is imperative to your shopping experience. Truthfully, without Ronnie, I would have been lost. Good help is as valuable as it is difficult to find.

If you happen to be feeling generous, head over to DKNY's Facebook page to "Like" my photo - you could help me win over $1,000 in DKNY fabulousness!

Have you had any unexpected shopping experiences lately? Share in the comments below!

Amala Room And Linen Mist

$24.00 at Anthropologie

At a recent Amala press event, it was fascinating to learn all about the brand's commitment to using natural, organic ingredients, sourced from farms all around the world. The brand really believes that organic ingredients perform better than chemicals and other synthetic ingredients, an opinion that many disagree with. During the course of the event, we had an opportunity to touch, smell and try many of the products, but one product couldn't get out my head - the Refresh Peppermint Room & Linen Mist.

It's been years since I've owned a proper linen mist. The last I vaguely remember picking up at a TJ Maxx and never finishing the giant bottle. After my recent obsession with Tata Harper's Aromatherapy Treatments, I've become a believer in the power of natural aromatherapy products. I was eager to run home & mist the spray all over my pillows. I wasn't prepared for what happened next.

I hadn't been sleeping well lately, especially since I have been a bit under the weather. I carefully sprayed the mist across all the pillows on my bed, so not matter where I rolled and turned, I'd be snuggled amongst the fragrance of the peppermint, spearmint and lavender oils. After laying my head on the pillow and taking a few deep breaths, I fell instantly to sleep. Not only did I sleep solidly through the night, I had dreams for the first time in at least six months. As I gathered myself to begin the day, I felt energized to face the day.

Is it all due to the spray? Maybe, maybe not. But what I do know is that I won't ever be without the spray on my bedside table again.